The Broncos’ offensive line will receive a boost in time for Week 16. Left guard Ben Powers has been activated from injured reserve, per a team announcement. 
Powers suffered a biceps injury in Week 5, and he has been sidelined since. Denver opened his practice window on December 10, however, signaling a return was imminent. After remaining absent last week, Powers will be able to suit up tomorrow against the Jaguars.
During Powers’ absence, the Broncos have used a pair of replacements at the left guard spot. Matt Peart filled in for one game before suffering his own injury, which paved the way for Alex Palczewski to handle a full-time starting gig. The latter could still see at least a rotational role down the stretch. Head coach Sean Payton said (via 9News’ Mike Klis) Powers will be eased back into action.
In any event, being back to full strength up front will be key for the top team in the AFC. Each of Denver’s other four starters up front (left tackle Garrett Bolles, center Luke Wattenberg, right guard Quinn Meinerz and right tackle Mike McGlinchey) have played in every game this season. That run of availability has been key to the team’s offensive success in 2025.
Powers, 29, has delivered on expectations as a run blocker in particular during his time with the Broncos. The 2023 free agent signing did not miss a game during his first two seasons in the Mile High City, and he is on the books through next year. A trade or release aimed at shedding costs along the offensive line could be entertained during the offseason, but for now Powers will look to reprise his role as a first-team figure up front while Denver seeks the No. 1 seed in the conference.
With Powers back in the fold, the Broncos have three IR activations remaining for the regular season. Another two will become available once the playoffs begin.